The Portland Synth Improvisors Collective (PSIC) or "psych" for short, is a collective of synthesizer enthusiasts in Portland, Oregon. The group offers events for enthusiasts of hardware synthesizers, drum machines, and other electronic instruments to perform with others in a non-stage setting. Attending an event is a great way to meet new people, learn new techniques, try out new equipment, and play improvised music in a casual setting.
Arrive at 3 pm to setup; the jam starts at 3:30 pm. Breakdown and cleanup by 5:30.
FOR THE UNINITIATED:
The scene is up to 4 tables, depending on attendance, each with 2-4 players. Each table has its own mixer with headphone outs, so each table has its own mix through headphones. You are not stuck at one table for the full 2 hours. Players are encouraged to move around the room during the jam session, listening or playing at other tables and meeting new people.
WHAT TO BRING:
1) Headphones with a 1/4" connection.
2) Appropriate cables to mix down to two stereo 1/4" outputs or one mono 1/4" output (standard instrument cable size).
3) A power strip that can handle all your plugs (or 2 hours of battery power).
4) MIDI and/or sync cables. Each table will decide how to run their own clock as a group.
5) Any synth, drum machine, modular setup, or other electronic instrument - the weirder the better. Tablets/laptops are not recommended but are allowed with just a few simple rules: 1) don't interrupt the jams for troubleshooting; 2) leave musical space for others; 3) do your best to look past the screen and connect with your fellow musicians.
WHAT'S PROVIDED:
1) At least one power outlet per person.
2) At least two 1/4" audio inputs. This may be stereo or mono, depending on the table.
3) At least one 1/4" headphone output. Some have 1/8" available, but not all.
Labeling your stuff is a great way to help us return it if something gets left behind.
Please RSVP if you plan to attend. We look forward to seeing you at PSIC!
Check out PSiC's website for more info! https://www.portlandsynthimproviserscollective.com/
-
Sunday, July 13th 2025
3:00 PM–5:30 PM
1256 Lloyd Center
2nd Floor, next to Dice Pool
All ages (10+ recommended)
Free but RSVP is required to attend.